Dating can open up new worlds of opportunity for friendship, relationships, love and marriage. It can also be a tough undertaking if you aren't experienced so before you decide to enter the dating game you need to consider what you are getting yourself into. It can be difficult if you don't approach it seriously but there are a few things you can do to prepare yourself that will make the journey both fun and successful.

What do you want to gain from dating? Perhaps you just need a little romance in your life or maybe you really want a serious relationship or even marriage. At least consider what you want before your next date hits you with the question. If it's just about sex then you should ask yourself if you are going to be honest with your dates about that, otherwise things could get nasty and you may also get branded with a bad reputation.

You should not be half-hearted when you go into dating. It can take some effort and you need to consider what you are trying to achieve. Think about how to approach it and do research to see who is out there on dating sites and how they are describing themselves. Make sure you are describing yourself honestly but in a way that helps prospective dates find what they are looking for. Don't be afraid to polish your profile and aim to describe yourself in a a fun and interesting way.

Ok, it is time to face the mirror. How do you look? You are in there somewhere but it might be time to spruce yourself up with some new clothes, a better haircut, or perhaps a total makeover is needed to bring out the best in what you have.

It's always good to stay in shape so start exercising to get your body looking and feeling its best and overhaul your diet if it's full of junk food. A fit body is a fit mind! You will start to glow and project positives from a healthy lifestyle.

If you want to be actively dating then have a look at your social circle and try to mix with more single people and those with a positive outlook. You don't want to keep going to dinners with married couples where you don't meet any prospects and you don't want negative people creating doubts and making you feel pessimistic. Also, consider who you are aiming for and don't be unrealistic about who you might hook-up with. Let's face it, we can't all date supermodels or famous glamours and we don't all want to either! That doesn't mean you are settling for a low standard it's all about aiming for mutual attraction with someone who is like-minded and will share some common interests.

The old cliche rings true, a book should not be judged just by its cover, so be prepared to give someone a chance and maybe then they'll give you a chance, even if they don't instantly love you for your looks. It could help to join a club or society, or even take up a new sport or pastime. You are more likely to find someone like-minded if you venture into common arenas where the chances of meeting are much higher. Nobody will come banging on your door begging for a date so you need to get out there and find them.

Having said that, you may be trying frantically to find a date. Perhaps you are trying too hard. So give yourself a break by taking some time to recharge your batteries. You don't have to give up, you may just need to ease off the accelerator and take time to reconsider options. Just make sure you stay optimistic. You're not giving up, you are simply taking some time for yourself before trying again.

The real key to dating success is increasing your circle of friends and acquaintances as they can be your best advocates when introducing you to new prospects. Enjoy dating for what it is, a chance to meet and socialise. You can have an end goal but you should also enjoy yourself along the way. Sometimes you will just make a new friend, but they will also have friends who you can also meet, so stay connected. Happy dating!